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Chelsea 'will rival Manchester United to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong', as the Blues begin talks with the Catalan giants over a potential deal for the Red Devils top target

Chelsea are reportedly hopeful of beating Manchester United to signing Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong this summer.

The Blues are willing to match United's agreed fee of £71million for the Holland international and can offer De Jong a continuation of Champions League football this season.

United have not given up the pursuit of a player manager Erik ten Hag made the priority signing of his first summer but De Jong is reluctant to move to Old Trafford and play in the Europa League.

Thomas Tuchel's side are now in talks with the Catalan giants and are optimistic of being able to agree a deal with the 25-year-old, according to The Athletic.